Transformations

My focus this week has been on reworking things that didn’t work out the first time around, and transforming them into something else — sometimes something better! Or if not better, at least something different than what they were before.

I overdyed the scrunch-dyed t-shirts from a couple of weeks ago. The overdye worked really well, and they look great. Here are the “before” and “after” pictures. Now they have more richness and depth, as well as better colors.

Before:

After:

I also worked on two experimental paintings that needed help. I did a lot of sanding, overpainting, and more sanding. “Before” and “after” pictures below. They’re currently in the awkward dismantling stage — being sanded down and taken apart.

Before:

After:

24″ x 24″, repurposed acrylic latex paint on canvas

Before:

After:

20″ x 20″, repurposed acrylic latex paint on canvas

These are learning pieces for me — paintings that I can experiment on without any concern about ruining them. They’re not done, and probably never will be. I like that I can continually rework them and see the effects of new techniques.

They’re not “pretty” paintings from a distance, but the closeup details are interesting.

In other news, I’ve been offered a show of my paintings at Fox Fine Jewelry in Downtown Ventura later this year. I’m excited to be showing there. It’s a gorgeous store, and they do a fabulous job of displaying and promoting the art. I want to create some new work for the show, which will keep me busy for a while.

What transformations have you been working on lately? I’d enjoy hearing your thoughts. You can share them with us in the comments section below.

Thanks, Joyce! I’m taking some flak on them. People are saying the “before” paintings look a lot better. Perhaps, but the “befores” weren’t good paintings, and the “afters” are in transition. Some paintings need to be sacrificed in the name of trying the new!

Thank you for the inspiration to re-try when results are not what you first hoped. I have a stash of silk ecoprinted scarves I will re-work now. Congratulations on your show, and I have to say that I enjoyed both versions of your t-shirts!

Hi Suzanne. I also have a stash of leaf printed scarves that didn’t quite work out! If they’re pale you can do more leaf prints on top. Or sometimes I use shibori techniques and put them in a natural plant dyebath. It’s fun to see them evolve. Enjoy!